Ep 6. Buck Henry/Leon Redbone

In the sixth episode of the third season of Saturday Night Live, iconic actor and writer Buck Henry hosts alongside musical guest Leon Redbone. Henry, known for his work on popular shows like "The Graduate" and "Get Smart," proves a capable and humorous host as he leads the show through a series of sketches and musical performances.

Opening the show with a monologue that touches on everything from politics to his own unsuccessful stint as a game show host, Henry quickly sets the tone for the night's irreverent and often absurd humor. From there, viewers are treated to a selection of sketches that range from the topical to the absurd.

One standout sketch features Henry as a hapless astronaut struggling to navigate the confusing world of zero gravity. His fellow astronauts, played by some of the show's regular cast members, offer little help as they bustle around him with comically exaggerated movements. The end result is a hilarious and whimsical take on an often-familiar trope of science fiction.

Another standout sketch features the beloved "Coneheads" characters, who were first introduced on the show in the same season. In this episode, the Coneheads find themselves struggling with simple tasks like grocery shopping while also dealing with nosy neighbors and an overbearing boss. The absurdity of the Coneheads' world is played up to delightful effect, leading to a series of laugh-out-loud moments.

The musical performance from Leon Redbone also adds to the show's appeal. Known for his blues-influenced folk music, Redbone brings a unique energy and charm to his numbers. One standout performance sees Redbone performing his song "Shine On, Harvest Moon" with a full band and backup singers, complete with a charmingly retro set design.

Throughout the episode, the cast members of Saturday Night Live prove themselves to be more than capable of holding their own alongside the show's famous guests. With standout performances from the likes of John Belushi, Gilda Radner, and Dan Aykroyd, the show manages to strike a balance between its celebrity guests and its talented permanent cast.

Overall, Buck Henry/Leon Redbone is a standout episode of Saturday Night Live's third season. With its mix of humor, music, and social commentary, the show remains as relevant and entertaining today as it was when it first aired. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply looking for a good laugh, this classic episode is well worth checking out.